The National Surveys of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) (360G-Wellcome-212931_Z_18_Z)

The National Surveys of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) are large probability-sample bio-behavioural surveys, representative of the British population. Together, Natsal-1 (1990-1991), Natsal-2 (1999-2001) and Natsal-3 (2010-2012) have interviewed >45,000 men and women, spanning those born through much of the 20th Century. Natsal’s repeat cross-sectional design enables a contemporary picture to be presented while also capturing generational changes and broad societal shifts through the measurement of both period and birth cohort effects. Natsal provides evidence of the context, influences and consequences of sexual lifestyles, and is vital for informing national and international sexual health interventions, strategies, and guidelines. We seek LPS core support to create a comprehensive resource for the research community, policymakers, clinicians, educators and the public. We will update and enhance the Natsal resource by undertaking a survey of ~10,000 individuals aged 15-59 in 2020 (Natsal-4). We will use computer-assisted personal interviews and collect urine/vaginal samples to test for STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, trichomoniasis, HPV) and biobank these for future research. The resource will be expanded through linkage to health, administrative and geospatial datasets. Through stakeholder engagement and a proactive data sharing policy, the Natsal resource will maximise its reach, scientific potential and impact.